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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.